Senator Jerry Cirino Named Legislator of the Year by American Legislative Exchange Council

Senator Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland) received the American Legislative Exchange Council's "Legislator of the Year Award" at its "States and Nation Policy Summit" in Fort Worth, Texas.

Senator Cirino was recognized for his groundbreaking effort to end indoctrination on college campuses and for his leadership as Senate Finance Chairman in achieving a single flat income tax during budget negotiations.

The Advance Ohio Higher Education Act was introduced as Senate Bill 1 in the 136th Ohio General Assembly. Signed into law in March, it made critical reforms to refocus and restore the mission of higher education to educate rather than indoctrinate the student body.

"I'm honored to be recognized by my colleagues around the country for what the Ohio Senate has been able to achieve in the face of an often polarized political environment," said Senator Cirino. "There are things worth fighting for and making sure that our bright students aren't bullied by the woke shadow of a radicalized academia that we've seen not only in Ohio but across the country will reinforce the authority of our college trustees to make our campuses a welcoming and positive environment for learning."

Senator Cirino's successful career in business helped guide the budget process towards the goal of reducing the income tax to a single flat tax that starts in July.

"When we lead chambers, we look for people who are going to be there to make the tough decisions," said Senate President Rob McColley. "Jerry Cirino is one of those people. He's someone who wants to leave a better Ohio for his nine children and his nearly 40 grandchildren."

"Ten years ago there were nine state income tax brackets and soon there will be only one," said Cirino. "Reducing the tax burden is key to building our economy and it is fundamental in making Ohio a great state to live, work, and raise a family." 

Watch Senator Cirino address the ALEC conference after accepting the Legislator of The Year Award.

Senator Cirino and his wife have called Lake County home for more than 50 years and are the proud parents of nine children and 39 grandchildren. He is serving his second term in the Ohio Senate.